We just got back from a family vacation to Disney World. And while I expected the usual — sore feet, way too many Dole Whips, and a suitcase full of mouse ears — I didn’t expect to come home completely inspired by their customer experience.
Sure, I knew Disney was magical. That’s kind of their thing. But being there in person with my family — seeing it through the eyes of my kids (and maybe a little bit through the eyes of my inner child too) — I realized something big:
Disney doesn’t just create fun.
They create feelings. They create moments. They create memories so seamless and intentional that you almost forget it’s all been carefully designed that way.
And honestly? That’s the exact kind of experience I want to create with our candles. (Minus the fireworks and $7 churros… although I wouldn't rule those out for the future.)
Let’s Talk Trash Cans (Trust Me)
One of the weirdest things I found myself impressed by at Disney? The trash cans.
Yep. The trash cans.
They’re themed to every section of the park. They’re spaced out perfectly so you never have to walk more than a few steps with your half-melted Mickey ice cream bar. And they’re clean. CLEAN. At a theme park! If you know, you know.
But it hit me: That’s the level of detail they care about.
No part of the guest experience is too small. No corner is overlooked. Everything — from the smell of the bakery on Main Street (piped in!) to the paint colors on the benches — is intentional.
And as a small business owner, that stuck with me in a big way.
A Candle Is More Than Wax and a Wick
Just like Disney isn’t really about rides, my candle business isn’t just about candles.
When I pour a scent like Kitchen Table Coffee (inspired by gooey cinnamon rolls and strong espresso — the kind of Saturday morning magic only Grandma could create), I’m not just making something that smells good. I’m making a memory in a jar.
When I handwrite a thank-you note on an order form or tuck a free sample into a market bag, I’m not doing it because someone told me I should. I’m doing it because it matters. Because I know how it feels to be seen — to be treated like more than a transaction.
And if Disney — a multi-billion dollar empire — still makes that their mission every single day, why shouldn’t I?
Magic Isn’t Just for Theme Parks
Look, I may not have a castle or parades rolling down Main Street (though if my toddler had it his way, we’d have Buzz Lightyear leading one through the living room daily).
But what I do have is a deep love for creating candles that bring comfort, laughter, and connection. I have a business that’s built on intention — from the way we name our candles to the Midwest memories we try to bottle up.
And after seeing how Disney makes their guests feel like the main character in their own story, I’m doubling down on doing the same for my customers.
So whether you’re burning Farmhouse Flowers after a long day or gifting Smells Like Taylor’s Boyfriend to your best friend, know this:
You’re not just buying a candle.
You’re part of a bigger story — one that smells amazing, supports small business, and hopefully brings just a little extra magic to your everyday life.
P.S. I may not be able to offer FastPasses or character breakfasts, but I can promise hand-poured candles, thoughtful details, and customer service that would make even Walt proud.
Until next time,
Rachel Diedrich
Maker of Candle Magic (and Chronic Disney Overthinker)